Research from MSI Consultants has concluded that the majority of the Dutch would like to see electric cyclists wear a helmet. In addition, age restrictions for young and old are favoured, all of which address safety concerns for this group of cyclists.
Percentages
The topic of MSI’s National Choice Stress Monitor changes monthly, with this particular research surveying 1,000 Dutch people aged 18-years and older on the use of electric bicycles versus regular bicycles and in particular, any safety concerns. 41% of those who responded own an electric bicycle while 34% are considering buying one. The cost of purchasing a new electric bicycle remains the stumbling block. The vast majority believe that they are not affordable for everyone, and those considering the move from regular bicycles have smaller budgets.
Additional findings from the survey include usage of the e-bikes. Grocery shopping was the most common use at 58%, while sports activities and meeting family members were also popular at 49%. Usage on holiday and recreational activities that aren’t a daily occurrence ranked at 38%, while commuting use amounted to 37%. Bad weather was the fundamental barrier to daily two-wheeled commuting.
Safety in numbers
Road safety remains a concern for those surveyed, particularly for e-bikes reaching higher speeds. For example, 55% are adamant that bicycle helmets should be compulsory for any e-bikes that reach 25 km/h. For those aged 50+ who took part, the percentage was even higher. One respondent commented, ‘Electric bicycles go faster than you think and the impact is greater in an accident than with regular bicycles.’ Customised electric bicycles were also a concern with 65% surveyed (and 73% of women) wanting police to enforce some regulation.
The safety concerns and helmet obligation suggestions haven’t waned the popularity of e-bikes, except among the younger generation, who said that they would lose some interest in electric bikes if helmets were compulsory.
54% of those surveyed also favoured minimum and maximum age restrictions for electric bike riders at 16-years and 75-years accordingly. Recklessness in the younger generation and fragility in those older riders was seen as a concern amongst both regular and e-bikes users, with one commenting, ‘Children go too fast and the elderly are fragile’.
Of course, those over 60 saw it differently and less discriminately, highlighting that it was down to ‘personal alertness, fitness and attentiveness’ rather than age. MSI Consultants were also reminded that it was good for the well-being of the older generation, with one respondent adding that the electric bicycle, ‘can be a fun outing for the elderly.’
The first quarter of 2023 has been a challenging one, and cities and shared mobility operators are changing tack on transport innovation. Some cities are limiting the number of vehicles that can be present at one time, with Paris even banning shared scooters in April. Operators are finding little profit in the shared transport city solutions, but there is a lot more to discover and rider numbers are still increasing.
Fluctuo predicts that some cities have reached full capacity for electric scooters, whereas others, particularly Eastern Europe, haven’t. Shared bikes are expected to catch shared scooters in terms of user numbers, while improved efficiency will see more people using the systems.
It is commonly accepted that urban density plays a huge part in public transport logistics in our cities. In the most densely populated areas, there is a shift away from private car usage, instead encouraging other modes of transport and more simplified means of getting around, particularly when the focus on the city is in one place, for example workplace communities. Here, amenities are close by, so use of walking, cycling and public transport is encouraged. This benefits our health and reduces our carbon footprint.
Shared mobility – namely bikes, scooters and mopeds – is also urged, and Fluctuo has collected data from over 90 European countries that shows cities with a population of 5000 km2 have over 10,000 shared vehicles. At 8,600 vehicles, Copenhagen is the only exception. Some of these cities are, of course, Europe’s largest, so this may not come as a total surprise. Outside of this 90-city quota, an additional 6 cities with a dense urban population were found to have fewer than 10,000 vehicles. Fluctuo suggests that these cities may not yet be at full capacity and hence, these figures may well change going forwards. Access to shared vehicles is a key factor in improving the environmental impact of our cities.
An accurate way of quantifying the success of shared vehicles is by looking at the trips per vehicle per day (TVD). Popularity is gathered by the amount of shared vehicles but the TVD tells the real success story. Fluctuo’s investigation found that high population density increased shared vehicle use. This is optimistic and reflects the EU’s overall quest to make city residents healthy and reduce the detriment to the environment.
Julien Chamussy, CEO at Fluctuo commented, “After 5 years of hyper-growth made possible by massive VC-backed investments, shared mobility operators now have months to become profitable.” further adding, “It may seem counterintuitive, but the growing number of calls for tenders and the increased demands of European cities (parking, user safety, environmental impact) could actually help operators. With fewer competitors and smaller fleets, performance metrics on the vehicle level should greatly improve.”
Comments Off on Bafang promotes evolution for electric motorcycles, with new brand T&D
As certified innovators in the electric bicycle sector, Bafang has taken another step forward in sustainability with the launch of its electric motorcycle powertrain brand, T&D.
Recognising the diversity of the motorcycle sector, T&D has developed complete drive systems for off-road, sports and touring motorcycles, mopeds, and indoor entertainment vehicles. Extensive R&D and confidence in the parent brand, means the new powertrains are already generating some excitement. Part of the T&D strategy is to develop meaningful and mutually beneficial associations with other like-minded organizations and brands, in a market that is accelerating at a phenomenal pace, and with a complete service solution, integrated supply chain, and impressive, targeted products, T&D is set to become a top name in the industry. Under the tagline Electric Evolution, the brand is dedicated to leading harmonious technology for a greener future.
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Comments Off on MAHLE SmartBike System in Eurobike 2023: Unveiling Smart solutions to expand Smart Mobility
MAHLE SmartBike Systems will show its cutting-edge solutions for the eBike industry in Eurobike 2023 in its main booth in Hall 8, Stand H14 and in the Demo area in F28 Pavilion 12, taking place from June 21st to 25th in Frankfurt. It does so with the focus on three strategic areas: Smart Accesories, innovative App features and drive systems designed for all segments including Gravel, Urban and Road.
The range of offerings includes the X20 rear hub system, which is not only the lightest on the market but has also been recognized with the most relevant awards in the industry. Additionally, the company will be presenting a complete variety of smart accessories and new App features that will take the connectivity with the SmartBike to the next level.
This year, Eurobike, the major international trade fair in the bike industry, arrives exceeding last year’s number of participating exhibitors. The second edition of this leading trade fair in Frankfurt will see even more exhibitors on board, making it an event not to be missed.
Following its SMART premise, MAHLE SmartBike Systems will present its latest innovations with the aim of leading smart mobility in the Bike industry. Highlights include the new Range Extender e185, recently launched by the company and now joined by the charging base Energy Hub, as well as the new functionalities of My SmartBike APP to take connectivity between the Bike and rider to the next level. Visitors to the booth will also be able to see disruptive drive system solutions for eBikes, especially suitable for segments such as Gravel, Urban and Road and try them out in the Demo Area.
The new Range Extender e185 from MAHLE represents a revolution for riders who want to go further or tackle the most demanding routes. Weighing only 1.1 kilograms, the company says it is the lightest on the market and has the best weight-to-capacity ratio, providing 171 Wh of power to increase the range up to 60km.
The Range Extender e185 is said to be the only range extender on the market that fits into a standard bottle cage and is compatible with any electric Bike ePowered by the successful MAHLE X20, the lightest drive system on the market, providing extra range for the battery with minimal additional weight.
Now, on top of that, the new Energy Hub is a charging base for the Range Extender e185 that allows hassle-free charging by simply resting your device on the Energy Hub and starting charging, ensuring the rider never runs out of battery. Nevertheless, this game-changing accessory goes beyond charging your Range Extender e185 with ease but also turns it into a cutting-edge power bank to charge other devices like cell phones or computers, becoming the perfect accessory to expand all the possibilities of your MAHLE X20 System.
In addition, and in line with the digital DNA of the company to lead smart mobility in the eBike industry, MAHLE One ecosystem will be presenting some new features designed to enhance the riding experience in a more active way:
Smart Assist
Smart Assist is a personalized mode within the System that, based on the inclination of the terrain and the weight of the user, adapts the behavior of the MAHLE X20 System to guarantee a seamless and intuitive riding experience at each moment of the ride.
Bike Update Through App
Also showing is a convenient feature that allows the rider to update the System software with their mobile phone from My SmartBike App via Bluetooth® in just a few minutes.
Strava Integration
In addition, MAHLE SmartBike Systems is thrilled to offer Strava Integration, so the riders can now record their activities with any device that can be linked to the platform, and once uploaded, the activity can be imported into the My SmartBike App, transforming communication between the two platforms into a two-way communication.
Routing
Finally, the brand is introducing Routing, a feature that allows the rider to create routes based on their Strava activities or a GPX file, not only riding from point A to point B but also receiving clear guidance and instructions to enjoy the route in My SmartBike App along the way.
Next generation e-Light Drivetrain Integration
This year, in Eurobike 2023, the company will present the integration project of the MAHLE X20 System with an innovative electric drivetrain technology for eBikes. A joint project between Pinion Smart.Shift, Desiknio and the intelligent and lightweight MAHLE X20 drive system, it is designed to take electric shifting in the e-light eBike segment to the highest level. These unique e-light bikes, equipped with a MAHLE X20 hub motor and an integrated 240Wh battery, are the first to combine the maintenance-free Pinion gearbox with the Smart.Shift technology, and a Gates belt drive made of carbon to create an innovative and worry-free drivetrain for sleek and lightweight eBikes.
X20: the lightest and most awarded drive system on the market
MAHLE X20, the lightest system on the market, weighing in at only 3.2 kg, is also the most advanced in its class, offering a frictionless 55 Nm of torque with a seamless start and cutoff to the assistance.
Additionally, because of the way the system is integrated in the frame, the natural pedaling feeling and the functional and minimalistic HMI, X20 is a great help to the rider in not getting distracted from the road and the ride. Thanks to all this, MAHLE X20 has been awarded as the most innovative system in the latest two edition of the two leading awards in the industry: Eurobike Innovators Prize and Design & Innovation Awards.
X35+: the most balanced solution
X35+ System provides the perfect solution for daily use, combining extremely light and ideal power performance to assist and offer the right support for natural riding. The system can easily switch on at the touch of a button, helping safety in urban mobility.
MAHLE SmartBike Systems stand is in Hall 8, Stand H14, and in the Demo area at F28 Pavilion 12, where visitors will have the chance to personally test the innovations and technologies that ePower the most innovative eBikes on the market.
As sustainable living and e-motorcycle enthusiasm continue to increase, LEVA-EU member CAKE has opened an additional flagship store in the USA, this time New York. With the success of their first North American showroom that opened in LA in October 2022, the lightweight CAKE range is in demand.
As more motorcycle riders are considering electric variants, CAKE’s US showrooms also offer test riding facilities and full servicing. Situated in the historic Seaport district in Manhattan, the new showroom has waterfront bike paths to test the electric motorcycle range. It additionally offers a cultural hub where current and prospective consumers can discuss the sector and the motorcycles with each other and CAKE’s team of experts.
Founder and CEO of CAKE, Stefan Ytterborn commented, “As the cultural and economic capital of the world, New York City is one of CAKE’s most crucial markets. The city is constantly reinventing itself to make life more sustainable and accessible to its residents. As New York paves the road to a more eco-friendly future, we’re excited to grow our presence in the city and demonstrate our unique vision for a zero-emission society.”
With plans to reduce 80% of greenhouse gases by 2050 and the expansion of North America’s largest bicycle network, New York City’s sustainability outlook reflects that of CAKE’s zero-emission objectives. CAKE go far beyond clean output strategies by additionally sourcing materials responsibly and designing long-lasting and modular products to reduce e-waste.
North America Managing Director, Eric Asmussen, remarked, “New York is already one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, and the city continues to move towards decarbonization. CAKE’s arrival is an opportunity to envision the radical possibilities of green infrastructure in the city. We can show the world that a carbon-neutral society doesn’t have to be boring. Just like what we do with CAKE’s products, we can combine responsibility and sustainability with innovations and excitement.”
New research commissioned by the Clean Cities Campaign and Transport & Environment shows a significant cut in air pollution after introducing low and zero-emission zones to our cities.
Of particular excitement, the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) guidelines for nitrogen dioxide pollution are within reach even in the most polluted and traffic-heavy hotspots in our cities, provided that zero-emissions zones are implemented by 2030. Additional air quality improvements can be made via other policies and sources.
The commissioned research should help keep the EU’s Ambient Air Quality Directive updated and encourage the EU to adhere to guidelines and legal restrictions, and also accelerate their zero-emissions transport plans in Europe.
The research was significant and the main findings to pass on included the following: • More stringent low-emission zones can curb NO2 pollution from local roads by between 36% (Milan) to 45% (Madrid) at traffic hotspots by 2027. This brings total concentrations (roadside plus other sources) at most city hotpots down to as low as 25.8 µg/m³, much closer to the 20 µg/m³ target that the European Commission proposed only for 2030. • In 2030, zero-emission zones can almost eliminate NO2 emissions from local roads, leaving only the contribution from other sources. Reductions range from 91% (Milan) to 95% (Paris, Brussels). Total NO2 levels of 13.6 µg/m3 (Brussels) to 23 µg/m3 (Milan and Warsaw) can be achieved. • The modelling contains several worst-case assumptions, and in particular does not allow for any significant ambition in targeting the remaining non-transport emissions. This means that the future-year predictions are likely to be conservative and that lower concentrations than predicted here are highly achievable with additional and combined efforts to tackle other pollution sources.
Urban Mobility Observatory, Eltis, has recently added a Polish-language version of its Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) (2nd edition). Global interest in developing and implementing a SUMP has increased following the publication of its Guidelines and Summaries. Local settings, governance, and transport conditions in cities around the world have all been considered as principles in the plan.
In order to make the Guidelines for developing and implementing a SUMP (2nd edition) easier to use and more widespread, the interactive summary has been translated into 16 different languages to include Polish. The 10-page summary translates as an accessible user guide for governing figures wishing to utilise the SUMP Guidelines (2nd edition).
The summary goes some way to explain the foundations of SUMP; its principles, planning processes and the four SUMP phases are all shared. Those accessing the summary are additionally given an insight into the benefits of SUMP and guidance on how to start the plan. In addition, it can also be used as an introduction to urban mobility planning.
The original SUMP Summary for decision-makers can be downloaded in English here. All current and future translations are available on the translation page here.
LEVA-EU member Granville Bikes has introduced their leading e-bike collection to the Netherlands at the Granville Experience Center launch event in Werkendam. The prolific range from Belgium-based manufacturer, Ludo, has been retailing in Belgium and France since 2000, and now includes eight models designed specifically for the Dutch market.
Granville abides by their high-quality values and competitive prices, with all models showcasing exceptional frames, notable workmanship, and technology courtesy of Bosch. What’s more, assembly takes place in Europe, reflective of their market standing.
Granville Experience Center
Recently opened in Werkendam, the Granville Experience Center is not only a showroom for Granville, but is also hub for brands Scott and Bergamont, distributed by Scott Sport NL. Customer service is high on the agenda at the Werkendam location, where servicing, advice and training are also on offer.
In addition, Granville have additionally developed their after-sales service to aid specialists and those in the trade via parts lists and dealer portals. This is hoped to make dealers’ interactions more efficient.
Following the launch of its AI-powered S90L e-scooter at Micromobility Europe in 2022, LEVA-EU member Segway-Ninebot introduces the Lite L60E, continuing to develop its range whilst recognising the user community and their accompanying environments.
Strategic developments in improving shared mobility vehicle hardware take precedence over rapid expansion plans, as even the slightest modifications can have significant cost implications. Interests and requests are considered, and Segway’s new e-scooter, the Lite L60E, has been launched to provide safe, efficient and affordable riding.
Segway’s Strategic Product Manager, Yao Yao, commented, “Designed with a focus not only on operators’ unit economics but also on the experience for riders and citizens on the streets, we are leveraging our engineering and extensive sharing business expertise to empower operators with the Segway Lite L60E.”, further mentioning, “This innovative vehicle is aimed at optimising unit economics, prioritising road safety, and enhancing the overall riding experience.”
Technical efficiency
Segway’s latest e-scooter is powered by a new 48V 576Wh battery, meaning a single charge increases the range by 30% to 65km. This naturally reduces the need for battery changes and charging, and therefore benefits the end user considerably. What’s more, highly accurate positioning by way of onboard data storage, dual-band GNSS and multi-constellation tech, means that operations teams can locate each vehicle with accuracy and efficiency in their daily tasks.
The L60E additionally comes with improved CAN bus communication, transferring data up to eight times faster than UART communication and optimising the main control bus cable from 8pin to 5pin. This means simplified operation management and servicing.
Safety improvements
Frame strength was the initial focus for Segway’s safety improvements, initiated by a series of tests to meet the manufacturer’s new standards. A vibration test was performed one million times to ensure it could surpass hostile and unfathomable terrains, while a 96-hour salt spray test that encompassed electrophoresis and powder coating processes was also performed. Passing such tests means reduced repair costs and an extended lifetime for the e-scooter.
In addition to frame safety, the L60E’s aluminium stem was put through its paces with a 600N thrust force performed over 300,000 times. The more powerful 48V battery, meanwhile, has new dual-housing that provides collision and drop protection, whilst also operating at a quieter level and delivering a more linear acceleration.
Enhancing the user’s experience
To improve the overall riding experience, Segway has additionally increased the width of the foot pad by 30% and has overhauled the dashboard to display only crucial information to include slow-riding, no-parking and no-riding zones.
Some of Segway’s championed features have remained, however. The front dual suspension system, front 11.5” and rear 10.5” PU-filled tires, a high-powered 400W motor that boosts gradability up to 14%, and new generation IoT for improved positioning and location accuracy are standard.
Customisation
Due to the variety in country and city regulations and requirements, different customisation packages are available for the L60E, each helping to reduce costs where possible. Owners can select from two versions (EU and KC) and three vehicle types: Lite L60E, Lite L60L, and Lite L60X.
The Segway Lite L60E was on display at the Micromobility Industries European summit in Amsterdam earlier in June.
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